CompIQ YUNA Pro Compressor Pedal for Bass and Guitar NEW

269,00 329,00 

SKU: CIQ-6 / CIQ-6-D Categories: , Brand:
Coming soon. Product details are subject to change.

You can order this product in the USA from Gear Hero HQ.

With its Japanese-inspired name (Yu-Na / 優結 / ゆな / ユナ — meaning gentle, kind, superior and binding or gluing), the CompIQ YUNA Pro Compressor Pedal delivers the essential compression and tone-shaping controls that bassists and guitarists love and trust, all packed into an ultra-compact, road-ready aluminum enclosure. YUNA goes well beyond typical offerings with a refined circuit featuring plenty of additional functions and high-grade components that deliver professional sound and lively response without distortions or artifacts. It’s easy to set up and highly versatile, making it one of the most refined and capable clean-sounding compressors available today. YUNA also supports the optional DITOS transformer-balanced output, voiced for warm, vintage-style lows and clear, detailed highs.

CompressorPedalReviews.com - CompIQ YUNA Pro CompressorWhether you need transparent leveling, fat punch, or subtle warmth, YUNA adapts and delivers. This one is easier to dial in quickly and make changes on the fly. I’m a fan.

 Manual V1.0
 Manual DITOS
 Frequency response analysis
 Setting examples and sound demos
 Video Demo
 What people say
 CompIQ 101
 Compare compressors

Streamlined Compression Controls with Unmatched Performance and Versatility

The CompIQ YUNA Pro is a smooth-sounding, powerful all-analog compressor and soft-limiter pedal for guitar, bass, or any other instrument or audio source. It operates on a standard 9V battery or an external 9-12VDC power supply (not included), making it one of the few pedals still offering a battery option. Like all CompIQ series compressors, it’s built with Burr-Brown™ pro audio FET ICs, low-tolerance metal film resistors, and plastic film capacitors in the audio path, for low noise and accurate frequency response. At its core is the THAT Corp’s flagship 4320 Analog Engine®, which combines a true RMS-level detector with a high-performance Blackmer® VCA. Unlike typical peak detectors, the RMS sensor averages the signal level over time, better matching how we perceive loudness. YUNA’s RMS reference level can be set to -10dBu for strong sources like pro line-level gear, -20dBu for standard instrument signals, or -30dBu for low-output pickups such as single-coil guitars.

CompressorPedalReviews.com - CompIQ YUNA Pro Compressor

I really like the Stella compressor but I think Yuna will find a lot of buyers who want a bit more simplicity than Stella while still offering up more functionality than most compressors on the market. Yuna is a breeze to use and dial in while offering an impressive amount of versatility. It can be as transparent as you want or pushed into more lively territory. It’s all about tone shaping as opposed to tone altering. It sounds great. The DITOS output makes everything sound fuller and harmonically richer. Another way to put it might be that it adds in a bit more vintage vibe. I think Becos has a hit on their hands with this new Yuna compressor.

YUNA’s Comp control, inspired by the early DBX 163 (a.k.a. The “More” Compressor), adjusts compression from less to more by internally linking ratio and threshold, both of which also depend on the jumper-set RMS reference level and the input level. As the knob is turned up, the ratio increases and the threshold lowers, progressively applying more and more compression. Due to this interaction and the signal-dependent behavior of the control, exact ratio or threshold values cannot be tied to specific knob positions, which is why the markings are simply Less and More. Compression can occur even at the lowest setting if the input exceeds the internal threshold, and likewise, if the signal stays below threshold, little or no compression is applied even when the Comp knob is turned up. This allows players to control dynamics naturally, staying clear of compression when playing softly and triggering it more when digging in, similar to the behavior of a soft limiter. The lower half of the range provides gentle, musical compression shaped by a soft-corner timing envelope that recalls the feel of optical designs, while higher settings yield a more pronounced and punchy effect without compromising clarity, thanks to the compressor’s overall Soft-Knee response. In feed-forward mode, the compression ratio can go up to 20:1 (10:1 in feed-back), with over 26 dB of gain reduction possible, depending on the signal strength relative to the set threshold. Feed-back mode provides smoother, more open compression, resulting in a highly transparent sound. In both modes, stronger compression requires adjusting the Make-up Gain to maintain a consistent output level. Keep in mind that increasing make-up gain will also raise amplification noise when no signal is being played, especially if the compressor is placed after noisy instrument pickups, high-gain effects such as powerful preamps, heavily-adjusted EQ’s, or overdrives.

The Timing control on the YUNA compressor is a carefully tuned circuit that combines manual Attack and Release into a single knob, offering more practical timing spans than other similar offerings. It adjusts both times together in a reversible way, starting with fast attack and slow release (FASR) at one end, which is how most compressors work, and gradually shifting to slower attack and faster release (SAFR) at the other. The first half of the Timing knob is more detailed, allowing fine control of attack time from very fast to slower, helping shape initial transients – with release times getting slightly shorter as the knob is dialed in. Set at noon, we tuned it to provide attack and release times that work very well for most playing styles. Beyond center, attack slows and release speeds up more quickly. Slower attack combined with faster release captures percussive transients later and lets them go quicker, producing a punchy, dynamic feel similar to what’s usually only possible with separate Attack and Release controls. This setup is particularly effective in percussive styles like bass slapping. The timing control covers two ranges, set by the Speed switch: in Fast mode (F), Attack runs from 5ms to 50ms and Release from 250ms to 50ms; in Slow mode (S), Attack spans 15ms to 80ms and Release from 400ms to 80ms. These extended timings allows for more versatility, adapting timing requirements to different music styles, from fast and punchy response needed for dynamically rich content or for limiting purposes, to proper adjustment for slow, mellow notes that can benefit from longer attack and release times. The timing response is also semi-adaptable, with maximum values applying at 20dB of compression and slightly shortening as less compression is applied.

YUNA includes the advanced side-chain features found in our other compressors. The variable Lows Cut/Boost Filter is optimized for bass instruments, offering ±12dB adjustment at 90Hz and below with a gentle 12dB/oct slope. It also works well with guitar or other sources. Cutting lows in the side-chain reduces compression on low frequencies at the output, helping to preserve the natural energy of the signal. Unlike typical side-chain filters, our SCF also allows boosting lows, increasing sensitivity to low-level signals and making compression more responsive in that range. This effectively extends the threshold range downward and helps capture very weak signals such as those from low-output single coils which many other compressors miss. When the Side-Chain Filter knob is set to the middle, the side-chain signal is left unaltered as a direct copy of the input. This results in standard compression behavior, where the loudest frequency component of the input triggers compression once it crosses the threshold.

YUNA’s unique design has quite a lot more to offer. It is essentially two compressors in one, offering two jumper-selectable side-chain operating modes. In Feed Forward mode, it uses a copy of the input signal before the VCA, focusing the compressor on speed and precision. Depending on the settings, this mode can deliver anything from light compression to punchy limiting. The Feed-Back mode, based on a post-VCA signal, offers the smoothest natural response that works unobtrusively for evening out dynamics. Each mode, combined with the rest of YUNA’s features, expands both its versatility and dynamic behavior. Both modes retain a clean, musical sound, making the choice entirely about what fits best in the given context. This dual-mode architecture adds a deeper layer of control and adaptability, allowing YUNA to handle a broad range of instruments, tones, and applications with ease.

YUNA also includes two internal DIP switches for Voicing selection, allowing subtle adjustments to how dynamics are shaped across frequencies. The Spark setting adds more clarity to the highs. Tight slightly reduces mids, adding a bit of depth depending on the instrument’s tonal profile. Punch refers to tonal character, not dynamic intensity. It gives mids-rich bass instruments a tube-like feel, with rounded lows and warm highs, even more effective when used with the tilting X-EQ or/and the DITOS transformer voicing.

The X-EQ tilting equalizer, inspired by 1970s Hi-Fi designs, offers two pivot points: High at 1kHz for guitar, and Low at 300Hz for bass. Positioned after compression, it gently adjusts the tonal balance between lows and highs around the selected pivot. Turning the knob right boosts highs while cutting lows; turning it left boosts lows while cutting highs. The adjustment range is ±6dB at either end, with the center position leaving the signal unchanged. Both settings suit any instrument, each offering a distinct and useful EQ character. This control also complements the Voicing feature and, with minor adjustments, can enhance the subtle coloration of the output signal.

YUNA has a Dry/Wet Mix control that lets you blend the clean signal with the compressed one, allowing for more natural-sounding compression. This technique, often called New York style, is useful when using strong compression as an effect or when making limiting feel more subtle.

An 8-LED gain reduction meter provides precise visual feedback on the amount of compression applied to the input signal. The additional first LED in the bar indicates that the signal is passing through the compressor (effect ON) with 0dB of gain reduction when it does not exceed the threshold. Note that the internal circuit draws current even when the pedal is bypassed (effect OFF). When using battery power, the input jack functions as a power switch by inserting a mono plug (such as from an instrument or patch cable). To prevent draining the battery, the input plug should be removed when not in use.

The optional DITOS board adds a transformer-balanced output on a 1/4″ TRS jack and fits in the space normally used for the 9V battery. It allows direct recording or connection to a mixer and can also serve as a floating unbalanced output for pedals or amps, adding the warmth of a transformer. The main VCA output remains active for routing to other gear or a tuner. An internal ground-lift jumper is available to help with ground-loop noise. We recommend keeping it connected unless ground isolation is needed. When YUNA is in true bypass, DITOS still receives input from the VCA output and acts as a series device. This always-on active load causes a small difference in signal level between powered and non-powered states of the VCA output when bypassed. If unpowered, DITOS outputs no signal.

Note! The DITOS board is no longer sold separately and is now only available as an option with a new compressor. Also, the DITOS marking is present on all enclosures, even if the DITOS option isn’t purchased, to streamline production. If you’d like to add DITOS later, the pedal must be sent to us, with prepaid installation and return shipping costs. Contact us for details on adding DITOS to your YUNA.

Pristine audio processing

The CompIQ series of compressors preserves the unique tonal characteristics of the input signal. They provide pristine audio compression and offer a high dynamic range, which enables clean, natural-sounding tones with minimal noise and no artifacts or distortions in any settings.

Key features

  • Full analog circuit with true by-pass
  • True RMS-level detector with reference levels at -10dBu, -20dBu which is default for instrument level, -30dBu (jumper settable)
  • High-performance Blackmer® VCA compression engine
  • Optional DITOS board for transformer-coupled balanced output (10KΩ impedance); replaces battery operation
  • Feed Forward/Feed-back compression modes (jumper settable)
  • From Less compression to More compression (ratio coupled with threshold)
  • Make-up Gain -0dB to +26dB
  • Soft Knee compression
  • Manual reversible semi-dynamic timing: from fast attack & slow release (FASR) to slower attack & faster release (SAFR)
  • Fast/Slower timing ranges, with hold for peaks over the threshold
  • X-EQ with selectable frequency pivot 300Hz for bass or 1KHz for guitar
  • Voicing: Flat, Spark, Tight, Punch (internal DIP-switch selectable)
  • Lows variable side-chain filter with progressive boost & cut below 90Hz
  • Dry/Wet mix
  • 8-LEDs gain reduction meter
  • High-end quality Burr-Brown FET audio ICs, low tolerance metal-film resistors, Panasonic, Kemet, Cornell Dubilier plastic film audio capacitors, Gold-plated multi-layers PCB, Gold-plated micro-switches
  • Genuine Hammond black-powdered aluminum enclosure
  • Runs on standard 9V internal battery or 9-12V DC external power supply (not included), center negative, 12mm long barrel plug; replaces DITOS option
  • 3-year warranty (direct to manufacturer, international, transferable)
  • Hand-assembled in Vienna, Austria

Reviews

For more reviews, mentions, and information, please visit our Blog.

Box Weight0,33 kg
Box Dimensions13 × 8 × 5,5 cm
Technical Specifications

Input impedance: 1.1MΩ
Main unbalanced output impedance: <100Ω
Optional DITOS transformer-coupled balanced output impedance: 10KΩ
Feed Forward/Feed-back compression modes (jumper selectable)
Ratio coupled with Threshold
Make-up gain: 0dB to +26dB
0dB Referrence Input Level: -10dBu / -20dBu / -30dBu (jumper settable)
Total amount of compression: over 26dB for -20dBu (77.5mV) input level; 36dB for +4dBu (1.23Vrms) input level, all at max COMP setting
Manual Reversible Timing: Fast – 5ms to 50ms Attack and 250ms to 50ms Release; Slower – 15ms to 80ms Attack and 400ms to 80ms Release
Dynamic Semi-Auto timing: adjusts based on COMP setting and input signal level
Side-Chain Filters: Lows (High-Pass, variable, +/- 12dB @ 90Hz, 12dB per octave slope)
X-EQ: Low (pivot at 300 Hz, +/-6dB), High (pivot at 1 kHz, +/-6dB)
Voicing: Flat (DIP-switches OFF), Spark (DIP-1 ON, DIP-2 OFF), Tight (DIP-1 OFF, DIP-2 ON), Punch (DIP-switches ON)
THD VCA: 0.1% 1kHz, 0dBu in/out, FB mode, 4:1 ratio, -20dBu threshold, +12dB gain, 1KΩ load, 24KHz BW, 12VDC power, through 6th harmonic
THD DITOS: 0.18% 1kHz, 0dBu in/out, FB mode, 4:1 ratio, -20dBu threshold, +12dB gain, 1KΩ load, 24KHz BW, 12VDC power, through 6th harmonic
Max Input Level: +10dBu
Max Output Level: +12dBu
Frequency response for VCA and DITOS outputs: 0dB in between 20Hz and 20KHz
8-LEDs Gain Reduction Display: calibrated for -20dBu reference input level
Internal battery operation: 9V (6F22) alkaline battery recommended
Voltage Range: 9-12VDC, center negative [ – ], power supply not included
DC Power Plug Barrel: Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
Current consumption without DITOS board: < 45mAh @ 9VDC; < 54mAh @ 12VDC
Current consumption with DITOS board: < 55mAh @ 9VDC; < 62mAh @ 12VDC
Simulate on pedalboard: Pedaltrain's https://pedalboardplanner.com

Build Option

Without DITOS Trafo Output, With DITOS Trafo Output Installed

Note! The product name, design, circuit, components, description, pictures, technical specifications, functionality, etc. may change anytime and without prior notice (Terms and Conditions). We advise you to check the manual (only available as a downloadable PDF above in this page) for details on the product's current features and functionality. If you spot errors, inconsistencies, or if you need more information or assistance, please contact us.
The CompIQ series of compressors
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Circuit Type
Dynamic Processing
THAT4320 Analog Engine®
FET Burr-Brown® Audio
Control Element
Side-Chain Topology
Side-Chain Detection
Side-Chain Filter
Side-Chain Frequency Compensation
Voicing
Adjustable Input Level
Peak-level Indicator
Balanced Output
(optional)
Crossover
Compression Ratio
Threshold
Reversible Timing
Dynamic Auto Timing
Attack Time
Release Time
Make-up Gain
Compression Knee
EQ
EQ Bypass
Dry/Wet Mix
Saturation
Saturation Filters
Compression Display
9V Battery Operation
DC Power Range
Current Consumption
More Info
Compressor / Limiter
Dual Band / Stacking
2
YES
Blackmer® VCA
Feed Forward / Feed-Back
True RMS-Level Sensor
-20dBu
Variable
Lows / Highs
YES
-
±12dB
-2dBu input, +2dBu output
Transformer
on-board DITOS DI
Linkwitz–Riley
70Hz to 1KHz
1:1 to inf:1
both bands
-40dBu to +10dBu
both bands
-
Faster / Slower
Auto: 5‐7ms / 10-15ms
Auto: 70ms / 100‐220ms
-6dB to +20dB
both bands
Hard / Soft
both bands
unbalance make-up gains around X-over pivot
-
YES
MK1
-
6-LEDs
both bands
-
9-18VDC center negative
Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
< 95mA @ 9VDC
< 170mA @ 18VDC
Compressor / Limiter
Single Channel
1
YES
Blackmer® VCA
Feed Forward / Feed-Back
True RMS-Level Sensor
-20dBu
Variable
Lows / Highs
YES
Flat, Spark, Tight, Punch
DIP-switch selectable
-
-
Transformer
DITOS DI board
-
1:1 to 20:1 (FF)
1:1 to 10:1 (FB)
-45dBu to +10dBu
-
Faster / Slower
Auto: 5‐7ms / 10-15ms
Manual: 0.12 to 12 ms/dB
Auto: 70ms / 100‐220ms
Manual: 1.2 to 120 ms/dB
-6dB to +20dB
Hard / Soft
tilting X-EQ ±6dB
pivot at 1kHz / 330Hz
MK1
YES
MK1
MK1
8-LEDs
YES
9-18VDC center negative
Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
< 35mA @ 9VDC
< 63mA @ 18VDC
Compressor / Soft Limiter
Single Channel
1
YES
Blackmer® VCA
Feed Forward / Feed-Back
jumper selectable
True RMS-Level Sensor
-10dBu / -20dBu / -30dBu
jumper settable
Variable
Lows
YES
Flat, Spark, Tight, Punch
DIP-switch selectable
-
-
Transformer
DITOS DI board
-
Less to More
coupled with threshold
Higher to Lower
coupled with ratio
FASR to SAFR
Faster / Slower
Semi-Auto
(compression dependent)
Manual: 5ms to 50ms / 15ms to 80ms
Manual: 250ms to 50ms / 400ms to 80ms
0dB to +26dB
Soft
tilting X-EQ ±6dB
pivot at 1kHz / 300Hz
-
YES
-
-
8-LEDs
YES
9-12VDC center negative
Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
< 45mA @ 9VDC
< 55mA @ 12VDC
Compressor / Limiter
Single Channel
1
YES
Blackmer® VCA
Feed Forward / Feed-Back
True RMS-Level Sensor
-20dBu
Variable
Lows
YES
-
-
-
-
-
1:1 to inf:1
-40dBu to +10dBu
-
Faster / Slower
Auto: 5‐7ms / 10-15ms
Auto: 70ms / 100‐220ms
-6dB to +20dB
Hard / Soft
-
-
YES
-
-
5-LEDs
-
9-12VDC center negative
Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
< 25mA @ 9VDC
< 38mA @ 12VDC
Compressor
Single Channel
1
(socket ready)
Blackmer® VCA
Feed Forward
True RMS-Level Sensor
-20dBu
-
YES
-
-
-
-
-
1:1 to inf:1
Lo: -40dBu / Hi: -30dBu
-
Slower
12ms
220ms
-6dB to +20dB
Hard
-
-
YES
-
-
5-LEDs
-
9-12VDC center negative
Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
< 15mA @ 9VDC
< 23mA @ 12VDC
MINI Pro vs. other minions

Do you want to know more about mini compressor pedals? We compiled a Technical Shootout for the most performance and popular mini compressor pedals available. Find out how our CompIQ MINIs stand out.

Blackmer® VCA

The dbx 202 “Black Can” Voltage Controlled Amplifiers (VCAs), designed by David Blackmer, founder of dbx Inc., were the first professional-grade VCAs and are still used in audio consoles today. Built with a gain cell of eight transistors, they were groundbreaking for their time. However, advancements in integrated circuit technology have since led to better performance.

For example, the CompIQ series of compressors uses THAT Corporation’s Blackmer® VCAs, known for their unique exponential control, where gain changes directly in decibels. These VCAs offer a wide dynamic range, low distortion, and maintain a neutral tonal character, ensuring transparent audio processing without coloration. This makes them ideal for professionals seeking high-quality, transparent signal handling.

RMS-Level Sensor

David Blackmer, the founder of dbx Inc., is known for inventing the RMS-level detector. It calculates the Root Mean Square level of input signals in a way that mimics how our ears perceive sound, which is in a logarithmic format.

This detector’s exact envelope is then used to control the Voltage Controlled Amplifier (VCA) based on user-defined settings like Ratio, Knee, SCF, Threshold, Attack, Release, and Gain.

Threshold Range

The CompIQ compressors have a versatile Threshold control that can handle a wide range of input signals, from weak to pro-audio levels, preventing distortion from high-level spikes. The threshold range scale is logarithmic and spans from approximately -40dBu to +10dBu, suitable for various applications. Typically, the optimal threshold for pickup signals falls between -30dBu to -20dBu, with brief spikes that can reach higer, up to line level at +4dBu.

For desired peak compression, set the Threshold knob at around 9 o’clock or slightly higher. Higher compression ratios are unnecessary unless you’re aiming for limiting. If you want more noticeable compression, lower the threshold, but use smaller ratios to avoid excessive signal compression, unless you intend to achieve a specific effect, like the “New York compression style,” which blends compressed and unprocessed signals for a balanced dynamic range.

Side-Chain Filter

The Side-Chain Filter (SCF) is a feature that affects compression based on frequency. It prevents high-amplitude low-frequency content from triggering compression. This is achieved by filtering the side-chain downwards from 1kHz, as shown in the graph. By doing this, compression doesn’t affect those specific low frequencies that much at the output of compressor. As a result, the low frequencies come out louder, less compressed, creating a distinct and fuller sound.

Side Chain HPF Options in CompIQ PRO Stella Compressor (-12dB at 90Hz & -12dB at 200Hz)

The Side-Chain Filter also helps reduce unwanted pumping, a common issue with “high ratio / low threshold” compression settings. The SCF approach differs from methods like threshold or ratio adjustments, soft-knee compression, or blending dry and wet signals. When combined with these controls, the SCF offers more flexibility for handling high amplitude audio content.

After 2022, the SCF circuitry in compressors like the MK2 Mini, Stella, and Twain was upgraded. The Mini’s SCF now variably adjusts low frequencies, while the Stella and Twain models handle both low and high frequencies. In these compressors, rotating the SCF control counterclockwise (CCW) boosts, clockwise (CW) cuts, and the center position leaves frequencies unchanged in the side-chain. This variable control adds more versatility than usual cut-only filters.

The Stella and Twain MK2 models include a Highs Side-Chain Filter for frequencies above 3kHz with cut and boost. This feature helps control overly bright signals by fine-tuning compressor sensitivity to selectively target high frequencies.

For a detailed technical article on side-chain filtering, including frequency response plots, see the following post:

Side-Chain Frequency Compensation

In our designs, “frequency compensation” refers to a pre-conditioning of the signal in the side-shain detector. In music, dominant frequencies and harmonics are present in each note. When notes have lower dominant frequencies, like in low guitar strings or bass, they can trigger compression too soon, over-compressing harmonics and higher notes. To tackle this, we use gradual pre-filtering starting at 20KHz and moving downwards with additional high-pass filter at 2KHz. This progressive approach results in a more natural, dynamic processing, especially noticeable in percussive or bass-rich instruments. Our compressors use a standard side-chain roll-off curve that aligns with human hearing, reducing -12dB at 2KHz compared to 20KHz.Side Chain HPF Options in CompIQ PRO Stella Compressor (-12dB at 90Hz & -12dB at 200Hz)

Side Chain Feed Forward / Feed-Back

The CompIQ Mini, Stella, and Twain models produced after 2022, 2024, and ongoing, offer selectable side chain processing. In Feed-Forward mode, the control signal is pre-VCA, resulting in an fast “in your face” compression feel. The new Feed-Back mode, however, uses the control signal post-VCA for a softer processing feel due to inherently longer attack and release times and the particularity of this way of controlling the side chain. In Feed-Back mode, an adjustable gain control within the VCA reduces overall noise from Make-Up Gain. This way of processing is different from the classical feed-back circuits which usually employ a fixed high gain placed after the gain reduction element.

Though Feed-Back mode limits compression ratio due to finite gain control, our compressors can combine Hard Knee with Fast Auto or Manual Timing (in Stella) for enhanced compression speed and amount. With a higher variable Threshold targeting high-amplitude frequencies, our compressors can effectively function as soft limiters, leaving the core sound intact. Notably, the RMS level sensor also adds to the natural feel of dynamic processing of our compressors.

For a detailed technical article on side-chain filtering, including frequency response plots for both Feed Forward and Feed-Back compression modes, see the following post:

Crossover

The CompIQ Twain features a variable-range Linkwitz-Riley crossover (70Hz to 1KHz), which splits the input signal into two separate frequency bands processed by dual compression engines. The crossover output also feeds the Dry Line, allowing seamless blending of Dry and Wet signals without phase cancellations, no matter where the crossover is set.

To illustrate, a chart shows matched levels of internal and external circuits with the crossover at 1KHz, output set to buffer level, and Mix at 100% Wet. The chart demonstrates nearly perfect alignment of phase across the audio spectrum.

Twain Crossover Phase Shift Plot

The input signal’s phase remains a straight line, but the output signal’s phase gradually shifts from 0° at the lows to 400° at the highs. This is a normal result of the signal separation and recombination by the crossover’s band filters and compression engines.

The following drawing illustrates the Crossover Knob Frequency Scale for Twain MK1 and the most suitable setting for utilizing the Saturation feature.

CompIQ Twain Crossover Frequencies & Best Saturation Range

CompIQ Twain Crossover Frequencies & Best Saturation Range

For a detailed technical article on Twain MK2 frequency response, see the following post:

Tape Saturation Lo & Hi-Cut filters

Both the CompIQ Stella and CompIQ Twain MK1 compressors offer an analog Tape Saturation circuit that exclusively affects the Dry signal. This lets you add optional saturation to your signal, which can then be blended with the compressed Wet signal to introduce harmonic distortion and warm up the audio while preserving the compressed signal’s dynamics. Note that you might need to dial in some saturation before it becomes audible due to the high headroom of the saturation circuit.

For the CompIQ Stella, you can activate the LPF and HPF by removing the internal jumpers. The CompIQ Twain has variable filters accessible through small trim knobs. The HPF is for the Lows band, and the LPF is for the High band. In both compressors, the HPF is placed before the Saturation engine, while the LPF is positioned after it.

These filters are recommended for use in conjunction with the Tape Saturation feature, as they may affect the clean, dry signal otherwise. The filters were introduced to provide flexibility when processing different audio sources while maintaining musicality and avoiding undesirable artifacts like muddiness in the low end (especially with bass) or harshness with bright guitar pickups.

X-EQ

The X-EQ section comes after the compressor and before the Mix control, affecting only the wet signal. When mixing dry and processed signals, the X-EQ effect gradually diminishes.

In the Stella, the X-EQ has two frequency pivot points for bass (at 330Hz) or guitar (at 1KHz). At extreme knob settings (fully clockwise or counterclockwise), there’s a total 12dB difference between low and high frequencies. When the X-EQ knob is in the central position, no frequency alterations occur. You can bypass the X-EQ section by adjusting a jumper within the pedal (only available for Stella up to V1.3; for V1.4 the jumper is not physically installed but it can be installed by the user if desired, and starting with V2.0 the jumper is no longer available).

Line-level signals

The CompIQ compressor series can handle input signals ranging from +5dBu to +10dBu without distortion, depending on the model and power voltage. They offer a wide 50dB threshold range from -40dBu to +10dBu, making them suitable for magnetic pickups, line-level signals, line-level FX Loops, and high impedance or line-level inputs on recording interfaces. These compressors provide precise compression thanks to the RMS-level detector, and their LED indication is accurate when the input signal is around the calibrated reference level. The CompIQ series internally sets a “0dB reference input level” at -20dBu (77.5mVrms). The amount of compression (inf:1 Ratio) depends on the input signal level and is typically 20dB for input signals around -20dBu (77.5mVrms) and 36dB for +4dBu (1.23Vrms) input signal levels.

Stella MK2 Voicing

Stella MK2 voicing adds subtle shifts in the internal dynamic frequency processing that add nuanced coloring to the sound. This is not really an “EQ”. The Spark setting enhances the highs with polished brilliance, while Tight slightly dips the low-mids for added depth. Punch, on the other hand, delivers a tube-like compression feel with rich lows and warm highs, perfectly complementing the DITOS transformer voicing. While “punch” often suggests action, in this context it specifically relates to tonal sound perception. If you’re aiming for action-punch, we recommend using the Punch voicing along with Short (S) auto timing or manual (M) timing set with longer Attack and shortest Release settings. Additionally, Hard Knee and Feed-Forward side-chain configuration are ideal (Feed-Back will also work for punchiness, with short timings). During manufacturing, we may set the Spark or Punch options as default so you can start experimenting immediately. However, if you prefer to maintain the most transparent sound response that preserves the instrument’s natural character, you can simply turn off the voicing switches.

Make-up Gain

All our compressors are designed to provide up to +20dB of gain to compensate for volume loss during compression. They also handle signals up to +10dBu (that’s 6.9Vp-p of headroom when powered at 9V)—double the amount of pro line level at +4dBu—with a max of 0.5% Total Harmonic Distortion. A passive instrument pickup can peak at 2Vp-p, but only briefly, when the string is plucked hard. Most of the time, it sits just above an average of -20dBu (around 0.3Vp-p), which is why instrument levels are calibrated to that range.

But let’s say your signal source consistently peaks at +4dBu (3.47Vp-p) and you apply compression. How much gain can you add before hearing clipping in our compressors? Quite a lot—up to +20dB (with the gain knob maxed out)—relative to what’s compressed, aiming to bring the average signal back to input level. However, if the signal is below the threshold, maxing the gain will also reveal more noise.

Now, if you want to boost this strong signal further, how much gain can be applied before clipping? Up to about +6dB you’re still within 0.5% THD (which is inaudible), but if you keep adding gain, you’ll start hearing distortion around 10% THD, as you approach the circuit’s headroom limit. You’ll get slightly more headroom if you power the compressors at 12-18V, but headroom doesn’t increase proportionally with voltage.

For reference, if you boost a +4dBu signal by +20dB, the peak-to-peak voltage becomes 34.7Vp-p. Can that pass cleanly through something powered at even 24VDC? No.

What can we learn from this? First, there’s always a limit to how much you can push a signal in any system, so check the tech specs to know that limit. Second, if you feed a steady, strong signal into the CompIQ compressor circuits, you won’t be able to max the gain knob without hitting distortion at some point—it’s not designed to boost just any signal all the way up. Third, the Make-up Gain control in our circuits (and most compressors) is for recovery gain, not as a general boost. Finally, ask yourself: why would you need that much gain/boost in a compressor?

Compressor noise

Compressors can introduce noise due to the amplification of make-up gain. As compression increases, more make-up gain is needed, adding noise to the signal. This noise can be further amplified by subsequent pedals or amplifiers in the signal chain. Additionally, any device before the compressor may introduce noise, which gets amplified by the make-up gain circuit.

It’s important to understand that if a compression setting requires a significant amount of make-up gain, noise will become more noticeable during silent parts. The signal-to-noise ratio drops during pauses, where noise may surpass the signal, leading to a negative SNR. Expecting complete silence when applying a +20dB gain is unrealistic. However, compressing at -20dB and then restoring with +20dB results in minimal but still noticeable amplification noise, especially during pauses. If maximum make-up gain is needed, it’s best to use the compressor for peak limiting rather than compressing the entire signal.

To accurately compare compressors for noise, they should be set with the same threshold, ratio, and make-up gain, fed the same reference signal. Some compressors have lower ratio limits, like 3:1 or 7:1, which makes them “quieter” because they require less re-amplification. Note that the term “quiet” is subjective and can be misleading.

For the CompIQ Twain, improper configuration in Stacked Mode can generate extra noise due to multiple amplification stages. The input preamp can boost the signal by up to 12dB, and each of the stacked compressor engines can add up to 20dB, resulting in a total boost of 32dB in dual-band mode or up to 52dB in stacking mode. This amplification can easily introduce noise or distortion, especially with strong input signals.

Given the pedal’s complexity, visual indicators for signal levels are included. The Twain MK2’s peak-level indicator shows Green at -2dBu, reflecting input strength after adjustments like preamp boost or external input settings. It turns Red when the output reaches +2dBu, which can happen when preamp trim and make-up gain combine. A balanced signal, typically around +4dBu, will flash between Green and Red. If both thresholds are hit at once, the indicator turns Orange. Steady Orange or Red signals suggest adjustments are needed for optimal processing.

The Twain Settings Examples offer tips for reducing amplification noise in stacked mode. Focus on adjusting compression and make-up gain more in the second (highs) engine than in the first (lows) engine. You can also control which frequencies are compressed in the second engine by increasing the lows threshold, using the Low or Deep side-chain filter, and applying a soft knee to lessen noise or the compression effect. Balancing these controls across both engines helps achieve the best settings for your needs. As a general guideline, aim to light up only the first three Green LEDs on each engine, with the fourth barely clipping occasionally.

Dual-band processing is more complex and requires specialized compression. What works for full-band compression doesn’t directly apply to dual-band compression. The dual-band compressor’s always-on crossover has passive components that inherently generate thermal noise, which is also amplified by make-up gain.

A practical approach is to understand how compression controls (threshold, ratio, knee, timing, blend, side-chain filter, and gain) affect compression and your desired outcome. Adjust these parameters to minimize the need for high make-up gain.

Noise generated by make-up gain is typically lower with higher input signal levels because the signal is larger. When using a limiting setup with a higher threshold, hard knee, and inf:1 ratio that affects only the signal peaks, any noise is usually inaudible.

For weak magnetic pickup signals, using a 4:1 ratio and a low threshold on the CompIQ can provide compression with noise levels similar to studio-grade equipment. You can further reduce noise by blending in dry signal with the MIX control and using a soft knee to minimize the need for make-up gain.

Power sources can introduce noise to electronics. Switching power supplies, in particular, are known for introducing hissing sounds. To minimize this, use well-filtered and regulated power sources. Most pedals aren’t designed for extensive power conditioning and filtering, so it’s essential to use quality power sources separately.

Power supply noise

All our pedals operate on 9-18VDC, with current requirements provided in each product’s specifications. The cleanest DC power comes from batteries connected directly to the circuit. While only some pedals support internal 9V batteries, all can be powered with external supplies that deliver the required voltage and current.

Not all power supplies are built equally though. Most pedalboard or stand alone power supplies use switching designs that convert and regulate DC through high-frequency PWM, which can introduce noise that affects analog audio devices more than digital ones. High-quality power supplies however, like those from Voodoo Lab, Strymon, and Cioks, use isolated ports, multi-stage regulation, and  effective filtering and protections to prevent noise propagating in your audio signal chain. These are more expensive but worth the investment. It doesn’t make sense to invest in high-quality audio gear only to power it with cheap, poorly made supplies.

If you hear high-pitched noise (like a squeal or screech) or constant hiss above the normal noise floor with our or any pedals, it’s likely due to poor regulation and filtering from your power supply, an overload from exceeding its current capacity, or both. To check if your power supply is the problem, try powering the pedals with an external 9V battery temporarily. If the noise goes away, it confirms that your power supply isn’t up to standard.

We recommend using professional-grade power supplies and keeping usage within 70-80% of their current rating. For example, if a pedal requires 9VDC and 70mAh, power it from an isolated port that supplies 100mAh.

Avoid daisy-chaining power when possible to prevent ground loop noise.

Switching noise
It is possible for pops or static noise to manifest when adjusting certain settings while the pedal is engaged. These settings include the knee, timing, side chain filter, EQ pivot, dual-band/stacked mode, and power on/off.

Gain Reduction Meter

The CompIQ line of compressors features a gain reduction meter to show the amount of compression applied to the input signal in dB. However, the number of LEDs in the meter varies between products and may lead to “invisible” compression between LEDs. To achieve optimal metering, a minimum of 20 LEDs is recommended.

Each product’s metering is designed and calibrated with reference to comparators at 9-12VDC, ensuring an accurate indication of gain reduction. However, the CompIQ Twain can also operate at 18VDC. At 18VDC, some calibrated thresholds for metering may shift, resulting in a metering indication of approximately -3dB less. While running an electronic circuit within a fixed voltage range (plus or minus some tolerance) is proper, operating at 80-100% voltage upshifts may alter certain calibrations within the circuit blocks. While this might have audible advantages, it impacts metering precision and introduces variation.

In rare cases, such as when powering the pedal at a higher voltage and switching the knee, the meter LEDs may appear “locked” and remain lit. This happens due to an electric spike caused by knee switching, briefly activating the LEDs even without an input signal. To prevent this, it’s advisable to switch the knee when no input signal is present but with the input and output plugs inserted into the pedal.

To turn off the remaining lit LEDs, the pedal must be powered off and then on again, or you can play a signal louder than the remaining lit LEDs, resetting the comparators. Alternatively, you can power the pedal with 9-12VDC instead of 18VDC.

Powering voltage range for the CompIQ line of compressors

The CompIQ pedal line can function within a power range of 9-18VDC. However, for optimal performance and circuit protection, certain components like the gain reduction meter are designed and calibrated conservatively to operate within the 9-12VDC range. It’s important to use high-quality, regulated power sources because exceeding the 18VDC maximum can potentially damage active components.

To prevent voltage spikes during pedal connection, it’s advisable to connect the pedals before powering on the power supply. Additionally, it’s a good practice to power your entire pedalboard simultaneously by switching on the AC switch on the power supply or plugging it into the AC wall wart. This helps control current draw and maintain stable voltages at each power output.

While our pedals incorporate reverse polarity protection, there are limits to what these safeguards can handle. Thus, using power supplies within the recommended voltage range is important to ensure optimal performance and protect the circuits’ long-term durability.

Demos, reviews & comments

Blog post: The 101 of the CompIQ line of compressors

IN THE PRESS

For more articles, reviews, and mentions, please check our Blog.

Becos CompIQ Stella + Ditos Reviewed by Bass Magazine Japan - May 2022Usually, when I use a compression pedal, it’s more like an effect because it sounds cooler playing slap, rather than the use it to even out peaks. But the Stella can be set radically: you can hit only the high peaks with some nuances, or you can make it sound tight.

Becos CompIQ Stella + Ditos Reviewed by Bass Player Magazine - June 2022All in, the Stella manages to cram a dizzying number of top-quality features into a standard pedal. At all times, the tone was clear, clean and detailed in the way that I've come to expect from high-end studio plugins. Bravo!

Sound On Sound Magazine UK - Review - July 2020 IssueIn short, it’s what I’ve always wanted of a compressor pedal. The Stella can sound wonderfully transparent, or full of character, and there’s oodles of control at your fingertips. Bass players should absolutely love this thing (though I suspect they may be even more enamored with the company’s new split-band compressor).

Guitar Pedal XEverything here exudes quality and fidelity. 'Pristine' is typically mostly used to describe particularly high quality Reverb algorithms, but it also very much applies here. And you can deploy this pedal very simply if you wish to - and mostly just using the 3 core Ratio, Threshold and Gain controls. You can leave pretty much everything else in the centre, set Fast or Slow Auto Timing, Hard/Soft Knee, and F or B Side Chain Feed - the pedal takes next to no time to set up in the most basic of fashions.

Vintage Guitar Magazine USA - VG Approved Gear Review - May 2020 IssueThe CompIQ Stella has a ridiculous amount of power for a small stompbox. Better still, it's a transparent compression that only colors the tone as much as you allow it, unlike many lower-end boxes that simply squash tone and volume. That's the sign of a good unit - delivering compression power, clarity, and flexibility to control exactly what you want to hear from a guitar.

Guitar.com - Becos Effects’ CompIQ Pro Stella Compressor features rack-style controls on a stomperThis pedal is designed to provide an array of features – with rack unit-levels of tweakability – in a pedalboard-friendly format. A highlight of the CompIQ Pro Stella Compressor is its analog tape saturation circuit.

Music Radar - Guitar and bass stompbox delivers dizzying array of featuresFor those who take their dynamics seriously, this fully featured stompbox offers a studio-grade VCA compressor that you can mount on your pedalboard. The Stella is a compressor that could prove itself vital as part of any guitarist or bassist's pedalboard, offering fully-featured, studio-quality control over your dynamics in compact form.

Extensive review of CompIQ PRO Stella Compressor on TalkBass.com ForumThis is a highly versatile and pedal board friendly compressor. I'm not aware of anything on the market that packs this much punch in terms of functionality. In many ways, it has raised the bar for compressor pedals. The words "Pro Compressor" on the face of the compressor is appropriate. There is a whole lot of versatility in an amazingly small package.

Guitar World - Knob-heavy pedal offers compression, limiting, tape saturation and more.Knob-heavy pedal offers compression, limiting, tape saturation and more.



COMPARE COMPRESSORS

The comparison table is best viewed on large screens, in landscape mode, preferably on desktop.

Circuit Type
Dynamic Processing
THAT4320 Analog Engine®
FET Burr-Brown® Audio
Control Element
Side-Chain Topology
Side-Chain Detection
Side-Chain Filter
Side-Chain Frequency Compensation
Voicing
Adjustable Input Level
Peak-level Indicator
Balanced Output
(optional)
Crossover
Compression Ratio
Threshold
Reversible Timing
Dynamic Auto Timing
Attack Time
Release Time
Make-up Gain
Compression Knee
EQ
EQ Bypass
Dry/Wet Mix
Saturation
Saturation Filters
Compression Display
9V Battery Operation
DC Power Range
Current Consumption
More Info
Compressor / Limiter
Dual Band / Stacking
2
YES
Blackmer® VCA
Feed Forward / Feed-Back
True RMS-Level Sensor
-20dBu
Variable
Lows / Highs
YES
-
±12dB
-2dBu input, +2dBu output
Transformer
on-board DITOS DI
Linkwitz–Riley
70Hz to 1KHz
1:1 to inf:1
both bands
-40dBu to +10dBu
both bands
-
Faster / Slower
Auto: 5‐7ms / 10-15ms
Auto: 70ms / 100‐220ms
-6dB to +20dB
both bands
Hard / Soft
both bands
unbalance make-up gains around X-over pivot
-
YES
MK1
-
6-LEDs
both bands
-
9-18VDC center negative
Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
< 95mA @ 9VDC
< 170mA @ 18VDC
Compressor / Limiter
Single Channel
1
YES
Blackmer® VCA
Feed Forward / Feed-Back
True RMS-Level Sensor
-20dBu
Variable
Lows / Highs
YES
Flat, Spark, Tight, Punch
DIP-switch selectable
-
-
Transformer
DITOS DI board
-
1:1 to 20:1 (FF)
1:1 to 10:1 (FB)
-45dBu to +10dBu
-
Faster / Slower
Auto: 5‐7ms / 10-15ms
Manual: 0.12 to 12 ms/dB
Auto: 70ms / 100‐220ms
Manual: 1.2 to 120 ms/dB
-6dB to +20dB
Hard / Soft
tilting X-EQ ±6dB
pivot at 1kHz / 330Hz
MK1
YES
MK1
MK1
8-LEDs
YES
9-18VDC center negative
Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
< 35mA @ 9VDC
< 63mA @ 18VDC
Compressor / Soft Limiter
Single Channel
1
YES
Blackmer® VCA
Feed Forward / Feed-Back
jumper selectable
True RMS-Level Sensor
-10dBu / -20dBu / -30dBu
jumper settable
Variable
Lows
YES
Flat, Spark, Tight, Punch
DIP-switch selectable
-
-
Transformer
DITOS DI board
-
Less to More
coupled with threshold
Higher to Lower
coupled with ratio
FASR to SAFR
Faster / Slower
Semi-Auto
(compression dependent)
Manual: 5ms to 50ms / 15ms to 80ms
Manual: 250ms to 50ms / 400ms to 80ms
0dB to +26dB
Soft
tilting X-EQ ±6dB
pivot at 1kHz / 300Hz
-
YES
-
-
8-LEDs
YES
9-12VDC center negative
Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
< 45mA @ 9VDC
< 55mA @ 12VDC
Compressor / Limiter
Single Channel
1
YES
Blackmer® VCA
Feed Forward / Feed-Back
True RMS-Level Sensor
-20dBu
Variable
Lows
YES
-
-
-
-
-
1:1 to inf:1
-40dBu to +10dBu
-
Faster / Slower
Auto: 5‐7ms / 10-15ms
Auto: 70ms / 100‐220ms
-6dB to +20dB
Hard / Soft
-
-
YES
-
-
5-LEDs
-
9-12VDC center negative
Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
< 25mA @ 9VDC
< 38mA @ 12VDC
Compressor
Single Channel
1
(socket ready)
Blackmer® VCA
Feed Forward
True RMS-Level Sensor
-20dBu
-
YES
-
-
-
-
-
1:1 to inf:1
Lo: -40dBu / Hi: -30dBu
-
Slower
12ms
220ms
-6dB to +20dB
Hard
-
-
YES
-
-
5-LEDs
-
9-12VDC center negative
Ø 5.1/2.1mm, 12mm long
< 15mA @ 9VDC
< 23mA @ 12VDC

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